Wandering Through Honningsvåg: Hills, Trolls, and Harbor Views

Arriving in Honningsvåg by cruise ship brings you to one of the northernmost towns in Norway, just shy of the famous North Cape. Honningsvåg (Norsk – Pronounced [HOH-ning-svawg]) is a compact fishing town filled with charm, arctic scenery, and the ever-present smell of salt air.

Despite its small size, the town plays a key role in Norway’s fishing industry, with trawlers lining the docks instead of luxury yachts. You won’t find much flash here, instead, Honningsvåg offers honest beauty, with colorful houses, steep hills, and quirky statues that hint at the region’s folklore. It’s a perfect stop for casual wandering and soaking in the scenery.

This was my first time visiting Honningsvåg, and I opted to skip the pricey excursions. Most were sold out anyway, so I took the opportunity to wander the city on foot. It’s a great place to explore without a tour, especially if you’re up for a little hill climbing. The streets along the harbor are flat and scenic, but once you veer inland, the incline gets serious.

I made it partway up the Nordkapptrappa hiking trail, stopping at a small wooden hut with a panoramic view over the town and harbor. From that vantage point, I could see nearly every place I had already walked: the firehouse breakwall, the school, the town church, and even a small cemetery. On a whim, I followed a sign for the local library and spent a few quiet minutes among the stacks before heading back out.

All in all, I spent around five hours roaming this tiny port, appreciating the crisp air and the slow rhythm of the town. Honningsvåg may not have the flashiest attractions, but it rewards those who take their time with quiet surprises and memorable views.